Mike Tomlin's High Expectations for James Conner's Pittsburgh Return

• NFL
• Mike Tomlin
• James Conner

Over four seasons, James Conner, the running back for the Arizona Cardinals, has racked up an impressive 2,302 rushing yards while playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers. This noteworthy record makes him a familiar face to Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin.

"We can't allow James Conner to do what James does," said Mike Tomlin, head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers.

With the Arizona Cardinals set to face the Steelers this Sunday, Tomlin isn't looking forward to a happy homecoming for Conner. The coach's familiarity with Conner, who he selected out of Pitt in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft, is the primary reason for his concern.

Tomlin holds Conner in high regard, praising him as a "legitimate tough guy" and "big-time competitor," and fully expects Conner to bring his absolute best to Pittsburgh.

James Conner's Career Highlights

Conner was a Steelers player from 2017 to 2020, shining as a Pro Bowl back in his second season when he rushed for a career-high 973 yards and 12 touchdowns. Conner's strength and embodiment of Pittsburgh's toughness, particularly as a cancer survivor, are emblematic of his character and skill. Ahead of the 2021 season, Conner signed with the Cardinals, where he continued to excel with a 15-TD performance, securing his place as a Pro Bowler once more.

Tomlin's Defensive Strategy

Tomlin recognizes Conner's skillset and keen instinct for the end zone and is readying his defense to counter it. The coach stressed the importance of keeping Conner away from the goal line, acknowledging his formidable skills as a "combative runner" and his "nose for the line to gain and the goal line."

Despite Conner not scoring a touchdown since Week 3 of the current season, he's still managed to rush for 526 yards and two touchdowns in eight games. However, a knee injury has seen him sidelined, missing four matches and being placed on injured reserve. Even with a season-low performance of six carries for 27 yards against the Los Angeles Rams, Conner is expected to be fired up for his return to Pittsburgh this Sunday.

With all eyes on the upcoming game, the Three Rivers crowd eagerly awaits Conner's return, just as much as Tomlin is preparing to neutralize his impact. It's sure to be a match filled with anticipation and high stakes.